Egypt is a largely conservative country. Caution should be practiced at all times, and all public displays of affection should be avoided for the safety of yourself and your group. While large international hotels in tourist areas like Cairo won’t likely raise an eyebrow to same-sex couples, we advise travellers to avoid budget hotels and/or reserve two beds. Further, gay dating apps should be avoided as local authorities have historically targeted gay men through them. Finally, while lesbianism is largely misunderstood and ignored in Egypt, female travellers should be cautious about PDAs as well.
Gay Activity: Illegal
Lesbian Activity: Illegal
Gay Marriage: Not recognized
Right to Change Gender: Legal, surgery not required
Same-Sex Adoption: Single only
LGBT Discrimination: No protections
A small, underground gay scene exists in Cairo and Alexandria. However, it is entirely geared toward locals. We do not advise LGBT visitors to attempt to participate in the gay scene.
Gay Villages in Egypt
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Pride Festivals in Egypt
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Best Gay Bars in Egypt
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Best Lesbian Bars in Egypt
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5. Luxor
This beautiful city is the gateway to the country’s highest concentration of ruins, tombs, monuments and obelisks.
4. The Red Sea
The coral-rich Red Sea is a stunning jungle of colourful fish and aquatic plants. Wrecks make for exciting dive points, but there’s plenty to see with just a mask and snorkel.
3. Cairo
The country’s capital is layered in history. When you’re feeling ambitious, battle through the often hectic souks. For a quieter respite, spend an afternoon appreciating the city’s spiritual mosques.
2. Pyramids of Giza
The Pyramids of Giza are the only remaining structures from the original list of World Wonders. And while their silhouette against the desert landscape is a cliche, you will never fully appreciate their size and mystery until you are dwarfed below them.
1. The Nile River
In our opinion, the best way to appreciate Egypt is from the fertile Nile River. Historically, the river has been the life force of the entire nation and all major cities and ancient civilizations were built on its banks. Besides being the perfect entranceway to the country’s most popular sites, it is also a naturally gorgeous ecosystem that showcases the country at its most photogenic.
Best Time to Visit: October & February bookend both the country’s winter and ‘high season.’ While the occasional dust storm may delay some flights, the weather is reasonable, and the crowds are bearable.
Electricity: In Egypt, the power plugs and sockets are of type C and F. The standard voltage is 220 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. For more information, visit https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/egypt/.
Time Zone: (GMT+2) Eastern European Standard Time
Last updated on Sept 24, 2021. Disclaimer: The information provided was accurate at the time of publishing, but cannot be guaranteed.
